Travel column with Katie Butler, Total Travel: Easter getaways, new checks and a sprinkle of Disney magic
If you are off abroad this Easter or indeed later in the year, it might be wise to set that alarm a little earlier – because if you did not know already there is a new system at the border that could slow things down a touch.
The EU’s new Entry/Exit System, or EES as it is known, is being fully rolled out across much of Europe from early April. In simple terms, it replaces the old passport stamping with a digital record, logging when non-EU travellers – like us Brits – enter and leave the Schengen area. Now, in theory, it’s all meant to be quick and straightforward, with biometric checks and passport details recorded in a matter of minutes. But, as with anything new, there have already been a few teething problems.
Reports from places like mainland Spain and the Canary Islands suggest queues have been longer than usual, with some travellers even missing flights. The UK Government has already advised passengers to allow extra time, particularly if you have got connections to catch. So, if you’re heading off for a bit of spring sunshine, best not cut it fine – because while it should run smoothly eventually, for now it’s a case of better safe than sorry.
That said, it’s not all queues and waiting about – there’s plenty happening in the travel world to get excited about too.
Over at Disneyland Paris, there has been a big reveal with the launch of its newly reimagined second park, now known as Disney Adventure World. And by all accounts, it’s a proper upgrade. The standout addition is the World of Frozen, bringing the much-loved films to life in a fully immersive setting.
Alongside that, there is a new central area called Adventure Way, featuring a family-friendly Tangled-themed ride, plus a scenic lake – Adventure Bay – which plays host to a new evening light and water show. It is the sort of update that gives families a fresh reason to return, and for those who have never been, it certainly adds to the appeal.
A bit further afield, there is also something new on the hotel front, with the upcoming Hard Rock Hotel Malta set to open its doors in summer 2026. Located in St George’s Bay in St Julian’s, it will be the brand’s first venture on the island and looks set to make a splash. Plans include sea-view rooms, rooftop dining, a good mix of restaurants and bars, plus plenty of pools – including a rather eye-catching rooftop option. Malta has always been a solid choice for a mix of sunshine, culture and shorter flight times, and this just adds another option into the mix.
If booking trends are anything to go by, plenty of people are thinking holidays. Late deals are still proving popular, making up a fair chunk of recent bookings, but April departures are currently leading the way, closely followed by May and June. UK ‘staycations’ are also proving popular for last minute getaways especially around bank holiday weekends.
Top selling destinations last week were the reliable old favourites Majorca and Tenerife with cruises departing Southampton coming in a close 3rd.